What My Cousin Taught Me About The Beauty And Complexity Of Autism

Like many other families (maybe), my family members suffer from depression, alcoholism (which could be considered mental), dyslexia and other afflictions.

There is something I've recently recognized, though: A good portion of my family has some form of autism, all of varying degrees.

We all know what autism is: "a 'serious' developmental disorder that impairs the ability to communicate and interact."

Now, while this definition holds true, I don't believe it "impairs the ability to 'communicate' and 'interact'."

Yes, it makes things a little more complicated, requiring far more patience than the "average" child. But children with autism are some of the most beautiful, brilliant and creative people in the world.

In the spirit of Special Education Day, I want to take this time to talk about my amazing nephew.